June 12, 1940 – March 11, 2025
David Read Lee, 84, of Williamsburg, VA, passed away with his family by his side on March 11, 2025. David was born in Richmond, VA, on June 12, 1940, the only child of Floyd Edwin and Helen Clare Lee. A graduate of John Marshall High School in Richmond, he was an active member of the Cadet Corps. David continued his education at the University of Virginia, where he earned his undergraduate degree in 1962 and later a graduate degree in business from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
David served his country during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Navy, stationed aboard the USS Enterprise. After his honorable discharge in 1968, he embarked on a 25-year career working in finance for General Electric in both New York and Massachusetts. His last job before retirement was the Director of the Department of Public Works for the Town of Reading, MA.
Dave was a long-time and active member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in North Reading, MA. He was a Past Master of North Reading Masonic Lodge and a Past District Deputy of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge.
In 2001, David and his wife, Phyllis, retired to Williamsburg, VA, where their retirement years were marked by their shared love for adventure, as they traveled extensively, both globally and to historical U.S. sites. David was an avid bird watcher and took great joy in the natural world.
His passion for service continued in Williamsburg, where he became involved in his retirement community, Windsor Meade, and Williamsburg United Methodist Church. He served on various committees, as a Stephen Minister, and as a trustee at WUMC. Singing in the choir and attending Sunday school brought him immense joy, and he found great fulfillment in the friendships and fellowship that were cultivated through his church community.
David is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis Gary Lee, his high school sweetheart and partner of 59 years. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Lee, of New York, NY; his son, Michael Lee; daughter-in-law, Jennifer; and his cherished granddaughters, Charlotte and Audrey, of Reading, MA. David’s family was his pride and joy, and he loved them deeply.
A man of faith, integrity, and service, David’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his dedication to family, community, and country. His kindness, generosity, and commitment to making the world a better place will be remembered by all who knew him.
Visiting hours will be at the Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 16, at Williamsburg United Methodist Church, 500 Jamestown Road in Williamsburg, with a reception to follow, at the church. The service will also be livestreamed at www.williamsburgumc.org/worship. Inurnment will be in the church Memorial Garden.
Memorial donations may be made to Williamsburg United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NELSENWILLIAMSBURG.com.
